ILOCOS NORTE

province occupying the northwestern corner of Luzon, Philippines. It is 1,312 sq mi (3,399 sq km) in area. The province comprises a narrow coastal agricultural plain and the Ilocos (Malaya) Range paralleling the shore, which is bordered by the South China Sea (west) and the Luzon Strait (north). The province borders Ilocos Sur (south). The region is noted for its tobacco production. Rice and corn (maize) are other leading crops, and fishing and forestry are important. Laoag, the provincial capital, is the largest city in northern Luzon. Batac (a major trading centre), San Nicolas, Bacarra, Pasuquin, and Dingras are other population centres. There are two national parks in the provinceNorthern Luzon Heroes Hill and Paoay Lake. Ilocano is the dominant language and ethnic group. The mountainous regions are occupied by Tinggians and Apayos. Pop. (1980) 390,666.